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Do you have a groundbreaking startup idea you’d like to explore or research that you are ready to take further? Are you looking to connect with a future co‑founder? Whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, researcher, post‑doc, alum or something else, we would love to hear from you.
At Founders at the University of Cambridge, we support early‑stage founders on their journey from formation through to entrepreneurial success. With years of experience accelerating knowledge‑intensive technology and software ventures, our programmes are tailored to reflect what founders need at different stages.
Discover which programme is right for you. To hear about future programmes.
Cambridge’s co-founder matching accelerator, connecting students, researchers and alumni to launch new startups.
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A four‑week residential incubator programme created in partnership with King’s E‑Lab, SPARK 1.0 was completed in 2025.
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Pre-seed programme accelerating the next generation of science-led and AI startups connected to the University of Cambridge.
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Learning from people who have built companies before can make a real difference. This is where the Founders at the University of Cambridge Community comes in. Made up of experienced founders, investors and industry experts, the Community understands what it takes to start and scale, helping the next generation of entrepreneurs navigate key moments. Within our programmes, you gain access to their guidance, perspective and introductions through mentoring, roles‑in‑residence, introductions and networking events.
Isabel Zhang
Deep Tech Investor, HCVC
Passionate about helping scientists turn disruptive research into startups with real potential, being a mentor on the programme was an easy yes. The programme’s real, tailored support and focus on the messy, iterative building process is rare.
Ed Leon Klinger
Founder & CEO, Flock
What’s unique about START is how it brings together a community of passionate, like-minded people eager to solve big challenges, have honest, thoughtful conversations and open up their networks.
Federica Freddi
START alumna & Co-founder, Sqwish
Mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and access to a vast expert network empowered our team to refine our vision and accelerate our startup’s growth.
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